Traditional coracle fishing on the Tywi river in Carmarthenshire faces an existential threat due to pollution concerns that have dramatically reduced fish populations. The centuries-old practice, which historically provided livelihoods and cultural identity to Welsh fishing communities, now attracts minimal participation as anglers struggle to find viable catches.
Campaign group Save the River Tywi conducted testing that identified industrial, agricultural, and human waste as pollution sources affecting the waterway. Fishermen reported observing dead fish and experiencing reduced catches, with one association chairman noting that four coracle operators collectively caught 12 fish across the entire 2026 season compared to historically catching similar quantities in a single night. A fifth-generation fisherman managed only one catch during the May-to-July season, describing conditions as dire.
Multiple entities have been identified as potential pollution contributors. Welsh Water acknowledged its involvement in some incidents and committed to £889m investment in storm overflow projects affecting the Tywi between 2025 and 2030. Electronics recycling company Mekatek, which operates under an NRW discharge license, stated it has spent over 40 years refining processes to minimize environmental impact and invited public inspection of operations. Local residents posted online videos of discharge incidents they attributed to various sources along the river.
Natural Resources Wales indicated it maintains multiple enforcement investigations within the Tywi catchment and takes pollution reports seriously. The Welsh government acknowledged awareness of foam, odors, and discoloration issues, noting that NRW investigations linked some impacts to natural environmental conditions. Local officials and lawmakers called for stronger action, with the Carmarthen mayor describing the situation as heartbreaking and the local MP advocating firmer measures against persistent polluters. The July Tywi River Festival was cancelled due to pollution concerns.
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